Social anxiety disorder (SAD), one of the most common anxiety disorders, is characterized by an intense fear of social situations. A new brain imaging study provides evidence that SAD is associated with an overactive serotonin system. Key Takeaways: Using PET imaging, researchers found increased serotonin synthesis and reuptake in multiple brain regions in patients with …
A new Canadian study suggests fluoride exposure may be associated with sleeping fewer hours than recommended for optimal health. Key findings include: Higher levels of fluoride in tap water were associated with a 34% increased risk of sleeping less than recommended. The association remained after adjusting for factors like age, BMI, income, ethnicity, and health …
A new systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that swapping out sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) for low- and no-calorie sweetened beverages (LNCSBs) may support modest weight loss and improve certain cardiometabolic factors. The study found that LNCSBs offer similar benefits to water, the standard substitution recommended by health authorities. Key findings: Replacing SSBs with LNCSBs was linked …
Genetically modified (GM) foods have been around since the 1990s and are becoming increasingly common in our food supply. While proponents point to the agricultural and nutritional benefits of GM crops, concerns remain about their safety and environmental impact. What are GMO Foods? Genetically modified (GM) foods have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering …
Cocaine use can lead to significant structural changes and accelerated aging of the brain, according to a new study. Key findings include: Cocaine users showed widespread gray matter loss in areas involved in emotions, language, cognition and decision-making. Cocaine users had “older” looking brains, with brain-predicted age 2.5 years higher than their real age. Brain …
Depression affects over 120 million people worldwide, carrying a heavy burden of disability, mortality, and cost. While medications like SSRIs have provided relief for many, most patients fail to achieve full remission. After 30 years with few advances in pharmaceutical options, it may be time to rethink our approach to treating depression. Exciting new research …
Microplastics and nanoplastics are increasingly prevalent in our environment and food system, raising concerns about their impact on human health. A new review of the scientific literature explores the potential for these tiny plastic particles to negatively affect brain health. Key facts: Microplastics are 0.1-5mm in size, nanoplastics are smaller than 0.1mm. They come from …
Artificial intelligence systems are increasingly being used to assist professionals like doctors and judges make important decisions that impact human lives. However, these AI systems are prone to biases that can lead to systematic errors. A new set of experiments reveals that biases in AI systems can negatively influence the decisions of the humans relying …
Working memory training has been shown to provide widespread cognitive benefits, but how exactly does it change our brains? New research reveals that a demanding “dual n-back” training program alters functional connectivity even during rest, shedding light on the neural mechanisms underlying training-induced plasticity. Key Facts: Dual n-back training increased connectivity of the ventral default …
Classical psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin have recently re-entered mainstream discussions surrounding mental health. Small clinical trials have shown promising results for their therapeutic potential in treating conditions like depression, anxiety and addiction. However, beyond their clinical utility, many questions remain regarding the impact of these substances on psychological aspects like personality and belief systems. …
